1 Billion Reasons to Invest in Apple and Smartphones

In the following video, senior technology analyst Eric Bleeker discusses news that 1 billion smartphones are now in use. The rise in smartphones has been an unprecedented shift in technology, but a majority of the profits have been accrued by Apple, leaving tech investors who didn't invest in the company with lagging returns.

Eric says that while the platform wars between Apple and Google were the defining battle for investors on the march to a billion smartphones sold, an interesting storyline not to be ignored as we move from a billion to 2 billion smartphones in use is the battle inside the phones, which will pit companies such as Qualcomm against Intel. To see his full thoughts, watch the video.

10/17/2012 -- Apple sent out invitations for a big event Oct. 23 in San Jose, Calif. The event is expected to reveal the next big Apple product. We've compiled a special report on what this announcement means for Apple investors and its available now to members of our Apple report. To find out how to play this announcement, click here now.